Ad Revenues In Computer Sector Hit By Technology Downturn

The latest ABC figures for July to December 2002 period reflected a negative period for computer magazines, which experienced circulation declines among key titles as the technology downturn continued to bite. Figures from Nielsen Media Research show that ad revenues amongst computer titles, were also on a downward spiral.

The biggest actual decline in ad revenues was experienced by Dennis Publishing’s Computer Shopper, which saw ad revenues fall by almost £1.7 million year on year to just under £5.2 million. The title also experienced a substantial decline in circulation, with ABC results for the six months ending December 2002 revealing a 13.7% year on year decline in circulation to 110,035.

Dennis Publishing’s PC Pro, also experienced a substantial decline in ad revenues, which fell £1.5 million year on year to just over £5.7 million. ABC circulation figures for the July to December 2002 period also brought bad news to sector leader, PC Pro, with circulation dropping 9.6% year on year to 121,189.

Crimson publishing also felt the brunt of the technology downturn and What Laptop And Handheld PC with a 27% year on year decrease in ad revenues, which fell to £814,865.